Laurel Run Park and Bays Mountain are two of the best hiking spots in East Tennessee, and for good reason. Both parks offer a variety of trails for all skill levels, as well as stunning scenery and opportunities to explore nature.

Here is a more detailed look at each park:

Laurel Run Park

Laurel Run Park is a 2,300-acre park located in Church Hill, Tennessee. The park is home to over 30 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, and picnicking.

Some of the most popular hiking trails in Laurel Run Park include:

  • Laurel Run Trail: This 4.3-mile trail follows Laurel Creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Canebrake Mountain Overlook Loop: This 1.7-mile loop trail offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area.
  • Laurel Run Park to Bays Mountain Radio Tower: This 15.3-mile trail is a challenging trail that leads to the top of Bays Mountain.

Bays Mountain Park

Bays Mountain Park

Bays Mountain Park is a 3,500-acre park located in Kingsport, Tennessee. The park is home to over 28 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities, such as a planetarium, a zoo, and a nature center.

Some of the most popular hiking trails in Bays Mountain Park include:

  • Bays Mountain Reservoir Trail: This 2.8-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Bays Mountain Reservoir and the surrounding mountains.
  • Bays Mountain Fire Tower Trail: This 3.6-mile trail leads to the top of Bays Mountain Fire Tower, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
  • Planetarium Trail: This 1.1-mile loop trail leads to the Bays Mountain Planetarium and Observatory.

Both Laurel Run Park and Bays Mountain Park are great places to hike, regardless of your skill level. With their variety of trails and stunning scenery, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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